Exploring the Ancient Forests of Yakushima

Island Culture and Tropical Delights

Today was all about immersing ourselves in Yakushima's unique culture and savoring the island's delicious flavors. From exploring local history to indulging in tropical fruits and enjoying authentic cuisine, it was a day filled with enriching experiences.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Yakushima Gelato Sora-Umi. It's a charming little spot offering gelato made from local fruits. I opted for a scoop of guava and passionfruit, while the others tried the tankan orange and purple sweet potato flavors. Each flavor was a burst of freshness, perfectly capturing the essence of Yakushima's natural bounty. It was the perfect way to start our day, fueling us for the adventures ahead. The shop itself had a cozy, modern vibe, and we enjoyed sitting outside, soaking in the morning sun.


Experience the sweet flavors of Yakushima Gelato Sora-Umi, where artisanal gelato meets the island's breathtaking beauty and warm hospitality.

After gelato, we headed to the Yakushima Fruit Garden - “Papaya no Sato”. The garden was a vibrant tapestry of tropical plants and fruit trees from around the world. A friendly local guided us through the lush surroundings, sharing interesting facts about the various species. Although there was a bit of a language barrier, his passion for the garden was evident. We saw bananas, mangoes, papayas, and guavas growing in abundance. At the end of the tour, we were treated to a platter of fresh fruits prepared by the “fruit mother”. The flavors were so intense and natural, a true taste of the island's tropical paradise.


Immerse yourself in the vibrant beauty of Yakushima Fruit Garden, a tropical paradise showcasing exotic fruits and lush botanical wonders.

Exploring the local culture and indulging in the unique flavors of Yakushima has deepened my appreciation for this enchanting island.

Next on our itinerary was the Yakushima Museum of History and Folklore. Located by the scenic Miyanoura River, the museum offered a glimpse into the island's past, showcasing artifacts from ancient times to the present. I was particularly fascinated by the exhibits on traditional textiles and fishing tools. There was also a replica of a traditional house from Kuchinoerabu Island, built before World War II, which we could enter and explore. Although the signs were mostly in Japanese, an English pamphlet helped us understand the exhibits. The museum provided valuable insights into the lives and traditions of the people of Yakushima.


Explore Yakushima's unique history and folklore at the Museum of History and Folklore, where culture meets the island's natural beauty.

After immersing ourselves in history, we took some time to shop for souvenirs at Pukaridō, a local gift shop near the airport. The shop had a wide selection of Yakushima products, including local foods, sweets, and Yakusugi handicrafts. I picked up a few small items, including some Yakusugi accessories and local tea, to take back home as reminders of our trip.


Explore Pukaridō in Yakushima for unique souvenirs and local liquors, capturing the essence of this beautiful island.

For lunch, we savored a delightful meal at Kamogawa Restaurant. This restaurant is known for its high-quality local fish and Japanese dishes. We tried the flying fish, a Yakushima specialty, and it was absolutely delicious. David opted for a sashimi bowl, while the others enjoyed the yoshoku sets, which included deep-fried shrimp. The restaurant had a retro atmosphere and was filled with both locals and tourists. It was a great place to experience authentic Yakushima cuisine.


Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Kamogawa Restaurant in picturesque Yakushima - where tradition meets culinary excellence.

As the day drew to a close, we headed to Hachiman for dinner. This small izakaya offered a cozy atmosphere and a variety of dishes. I tried some cold tofu, edamame, and fried rice, while others enjoyed the local sake. It was a perfect way to unwind after a busy day of exploring.


Discover the flavors of Japan at Hachiman in Yakushima - an authentic izakaya experience awaits with delicious dishes and local drinks.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much Yakushima has to offer beyond its stunning natural landscapes. The island's rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine have truly captured my heart. I am so grateful for the opportunity to experience all that Yakushima has to offer with my friends.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Kigensugi Cedar and the Yakushima-todai Lighthouse. I’m excited to see more of Yakushima's natural wonders and learn more about its unique environment. I'm also looking forward to trying breakfast at Smiley, lunch at Subarashi Indian Restaurant, and dinner at Yakushima Gallery Restaurant. And perhaps, we’ll end the day at Cafe & Bar RainTree.

Before I close, I wanted to mention that while researching local events, I didn't find any specific festivals or events happening today, August 15, 2025. However, Yakushima is known for its vibrant culture, and there are often smaller, unadvertised gatherings or celebrations taking place. It's always worth asking locals for recommendations on any special events happening during your visit.